Thursday, March 22, 2012

Nandi at Brhadeeswarar Temple, Tanjavur

In the 1000 year old Brhadeeswarar Temple complex of Tanjavur there are several sculptures of Nandi. Some of them are on the tower of the temple.

The Main Nandhi is made up of huge monolithic stone is housed in a Mandapam with numerous pillars. It is 13 feet in height. The Nandhi and the mandapam were erected during the Nayaks period 1000 years back. The Nadhi is erected here before the flag-mast and such a Nandhi is called Porkala Nandhi or Wartime Nandhi.

The ceiling of the Nandi mandapam is beautifully painted. Centuries old paintings have passed the test of time so far.

At the top of the temple tower near its neck there are 8 Nandhis facing the 8 directs. These Nandi are visible prominently even while standing on the ground near the temple. They are huge and carved from single stone. There is also a Nandhi of the similar scale on the Southern side of the temple.

45 comments:

This is one the biggest Nandis in existence. I was at this temple once during Sivaratri & pradosham and had the privilege of witnessing the Abhishekam of the massive Nandi - that was an awesome spectacle !

It's interesting that while people living 1,000 years ago did not know much science, medicine, philosophy, etc., they were very creative and could erect and sculpt such magnificent buildings and statues!

About Me

Love traveling across India and capturing what I see in images. There is so much to discover and one life is not enough. I just love the experience. This is my small attempt to share my experiences with the world.
Contact: rajeshprabh@gmail.com